PEP Program Peer Mentors
The role of the PEP Peer Mentors is to establish a relationship with students and help them feel like they belong. By striving to improve their knowledge of the college environment, their academic confidence, and their personal growth, the peer mentors give students the support they need to feel secure in their scholarship.
Lead Peer Mentors
Fathia Obabiyi
My name is Fathia Obabiyi, and I am a Philosophy major on the pre-medical track with aspirations of becoming a physician. As a first-generation college student, I understand the challenges of navigating college life without the benefit of family experience to guide me.
I know firsthand how overwhelming it can be to adjust to academic expectations, build a support network, and find the right resources. Becoming a Lead PEP Peer Mentor is an opportunity for me to share the insights and strategies I’ve gained throughout my college journey. I am passionate about helping other first-generation students feel empowered, supported, and confident in their abilities.
Through mentorship, I hope to create a sense of belonging for students who may feel uncertain or disconnected. I also look forward to contributing to a welcoming campus environment where every student feels valued and encouraged to reach their goals. Serving as a Lead Peer Mentor will allow me to give back to the community that has helped me grow, while also developing my leadership and communication skills as I prepare for a future in medicine.
Elisa Da Rosa
Hello! my name is Elisa DaRosa and I am currently a Film major Transitioning into a Psychology major. I was raised in Rhode Island and come from an immigrant household.
I decided to join the PEP society as a Lead Mentor so I can help new students transition into college life with a helping solider on their side. I know first-hand how overwhelming and scary college life can be especially without anyone to communicate with.
I believe my position will not only benefit my personal growth but also will allow me to empower others by providing support, guidance and a sense of community.
Through this position I hope to create a welcoming environment where student feel seen, heard and ready to both academically and personally.
Peer Mentors
Buddha Tamang
Hi! My name is Buddha Tamang. I’m currently a junior majoring in Finance and Accounting and a licensed real estate agent.
I decided to become a peer mentor because of the atmosphere and the people I get to work with at CSD. I have worked for our sister program, Student Support Services (SSS) for the past two years.
As a peer mentor, my goal is to support and guide students through their academic journey by sharing my experiences, offering advice, and helping them navigate college life.
Outside of academics, I enjoy working out, playing basketball/soccer and thrifting. Feel free to reach out—I’m always happy to connect and help in any way I can!
Sonney Inthisorn
Hi ! My name is Sonney, and I’m a nursing major from Connecticut. I’m currently in my third year here at RIC.
My culture and religion are major parts of my identity and because of those parts of my identity, they push me to want to help others be the best versions of themselves that they possibly can. I joined PEP because, as a first-generation college student, I know how overwhelming starting college can feel. I remember being nervous and not knowing what to expect.
My goal now is to support students who are in the same position I once was in. I want to help them feel more at home and take full advantage of everything RIC has to offer. I wanted somewhere to start and what better way than working with PEP!